The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily
American Public Media
Host Maggie Smith is your daily poetry companion. Poetry is one of the greatest tools we have to wield our own attention — to consider our own lives and the lives of others, to help us live creatively and compassionately, to use that attention to lean into wonder, and joy, and truth, and to find hope — to keep hoping. The Slowdown community knows that reflecting on a poem, every weekday, can connect us to our inner world and the world around us. Listen as you make your morning coffee, as you go on a walk in your neighborhood, as you pull away from the to-do list, as you resist the dismal, endless scroll to share five minutes of perspective through the lens of poetry, from poets old and new, well-loved and emerging onto the scene. Brought to you by American Public Media, in partnership with the Poetry Foundation.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 1, 2025 • 7min
1407: At the Base of the Mountain by Amanda Hawkins
In this episode, the discussion revolves around the significance of sacred places and personal pilgrimages. Maggie reflects on how these locations become powerful touchstones for memory and connection. The featured poem delves into themes of death and the mountains, emphasizing their intrinsic meanings. Listeners are invited to explore what makes a place special to them, intertwining poetry with the essence of personal reflection. It's a beautiful reminder of the significance we can find in our surroundings.
Nov 28, 2025 • 7min
1406: Paperweight by Ryan Teitman
Today’s poem is Paperweight by Ryan Teitman. The Slowdown is your daily poetry ritual. In this episode, Maggie writes… “Today’s poem charmed me immediately with its imagination and its restraint. It’s a poem that makes me ask, “What if?” It’s also a poem I want to read again as soon as I finish it.” Celebrate the power of poems with a gift to The Slowdown today. Every donation makes a difference: https://tinyurl.com/rjm4synp
Nov 27, 2025 • 6min
1405: Entry by Chet'la Sebree
The discussion dives into the themes of curiosity and knowledge, challenging traditional narratives of punishment for inquisitive women. Parenting approaches emphasize encouraging children to question rules rather than follow them blindly. The innate human desire to discover and learn for oneself is celebrated. Listeners are introduced to a poignant poem that encapsulates these themes, weaving together ideas of language, symmetry, and historical figures like Eve. It's a rich exploration of the power and pain that often accompany curiosity.
Nov 26, 2025 • 6min
1404: Before Lunar New Year, Our Mothers Go Missing by Uyen Phuong Dang
A thought-provoking poem delves into the nostalgic nuances of motherhood and memory. It reflects on the impact of the Lunar New Year, evoking themes of loss and generational connections. The host contemplates what children remember about their mothers, raising questions about identity and legacy. Rich imagery captures a sense of home and longing, illustrating the silent strength of mothers waiting for their children's return. This exploration of intimate relationships through poetry invites listeners to connect deeply with their own experiences.
Nov 25, 2025 • 7min
1403: Echo by Pura López-Colomé, translated by Forrest Gander
Discover the artistry behind translation as language transforms meaning and sound. Explore the nuances between English and Spanish, shedding light on how they shape poetic experiences. Dive into Pura López-Colomé's evocative poem Echo, brought to life through Forrest Gander's careful translation. Reflect on the echoes of breath, water, and voice that resonate throughout the piece. This journey highlights the beauty and challenge of articulating emotions through the written word.
Nov 24, 2025 • 6min
1402: Gloria Mundi by Michael Kleber-Diggs
In a heartfelt reflection, Maggie Smith shares her unique funeral playlist, viewing it as a celebration rather than a morbid affair. She highlights how songs encapsulate memories and stages of her life, hoping they spark stories at her memorial. The discussion leads into a poignant poem, Gloria Mundi, which explores the delicate balance between celebration and sorrow in the context of loss. It's a beautiful reminder of how poetry can bridge our experiences and emotions.
Nov 21, 2025 • 7min
1401: LeaveTaking by Rita Dove
Dive into a dreamlike poem about feeling like an outsider on Earth. Explore the themes of otherness and belonging as the narrator navigates a world of humans while grappling with homesickness. The tension between hiding one's true nature and longing to be seen adds a rich layer of emotional depth. Witness a moment of connection as a child notices the narrator, leaving you pondering the complexities of identity and acceptance. A profound reflection on what it means to belong.
Nov 20, 2025 • 5min
1400: The Eulogy I Didn’t Give (I) by Bob Hicok
This discussion highlights how poetry serves as a vital tool for expressing complex emotions like grief, love, and gratitude. Maggie shares the transformative power of daily poetry and its role in significant life events, from weddings to funerals. She emphasizes that poetry can articulate feelings that words alone often fail to capture. The spotlight is on Bob Hicok's poignant poem, exploring the challenges of articulating grief and the necessity of poetic expression in such times.
Nov 19, 2025 • 6min
1399: Alarm Clock by Jennifer Maier
Explore the intriguing relationship between time and life in a reflective poem by Jennifer Maier. The imagery of a clock illustrates how we measure existence against the backdrop of infinity. The piece discusses the illusion of time slipping away with each tick and the paradox of trying to own moments. It contrasts the clock's whispers with the alarm that disrupts our lives, highlighting the struggle to connect across different time zones. This meditation invites listeners to ponder the essence of time and its fleeting nature.
Nov 18, 2025 • 6min
1398: A dead whale can feed an entire ecosystem by Rachel Dillon
Explore the transformative power of art in times of crisis. The discussion centers on how poetry can articulate the human experience and foster a sense of connection. A moving poem by Rachel Dillon reflects on the impact of environmental tragedies, using a stranded whale as a poignant symbol. The host emphasizes that art can help us feel seen and understood, making the burdens of existence a little lighter. Join in as they celebrate the vital role of poetry in our lives.
